In May 2022, S. Monet Wahls contracted Covid for the third time and experienced persistent respiratory issues. Doctors have highlighted the potential risks of contracting Covid multiple times, especially for Black individuals. Dr. Geoffrey Mount Varner, an ER physician, emphasized that Black communities could face severe consequences if multiple Covid infections are not prevented.
He noted that Black individuals have been disproportionately affected by Covid due to prevalent comorbidities like diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. These factors make them more vulnerable to the severe effects of multiple infections compared to their white counterparts. A 2021 meta-analysis revealed that Black individuals diagnosed with Covid had a higher likelihood of ICU admissions.
Wahls, a business consultant, expressed her concerns about the long-term health implications of contracting the virus multiple times. The limited access to quality healthcare in areas predominantly inhabited by Black people further exacerbates the situation. Dr. Jayne Morgan, a cardiologist, warned about the potential disabilities and challenges Black individuals might face if they contract Covid multiple times, affecting their ability to care for their families.Â
William Matos, an attorney, shared his experience of contracting Covid three times, with the first instance being the most severe. He emphasized the long-lasting effects of the virus, which differ significantly from the flu. Dr. Morgan pointed out the deceptive nature of the Omicron variant, which might present mild symptoms but remains highly infectious. She stressed the importance of taking precautions against the virus. Dr. Varner recommended familiar protective measures like wearing masks, hand hygiene, and vaccinations.
He also suggested the intake of vitamins C and D, zinc, and consulting healthcare professionals for tailored advice. Regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and hydration are also essential for a robust immune system. Dr. Morgan lamented the missed opportunity to achieve herd immunity due to vaccine hesitancy and political influences. She criticized the role of social media in spreading misinformation about Covid.Â
Dr. Varner emphasized the need for effective messaging targeting Black communities, advocating for relatable messengers to convey the importance of vaccinations and the risks of multiple infections. He expressed concerns about the lack of efforts to reach Black individuals with limited internet access or medical knowledge, making them more susceptible.Â
News Reference Â
Getting Covid several times can have an outsize effect on Black people, doctors say. (2023). Retrieved from https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/getting-covid-several-can-outsize-effect-black-people-doctors-say-rcna118400Â
